Transition Third Man Box

Objective

• -Coach the third-man run and the pass that sets it up
• -Improve timing between the set and the release
• -Break lines with a forward pass

Setup

1. 1A box with a target player on each end line in a 30 x 26 yards area.
2. 2Mark a second target area at the opposite end so the practice can flip direction instantly.
3. 3Balls at both end lines, bibs for the middle defenders.

How to play

1. 1Play in to the front player, who sets back to a supporting team-mate.
2. 2The third player then receives the forward pass beyond the defensive line.
3. 3Sequence resets from the opposite end line.
4. 4Coach serves a loose ball into the middle and both teams react to win it.
5. 5On every turnover the winning team has six seconds to attack the opposite target.

Progressions

• +Cut the counter window to four seconds
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Freeze the play for two seconds after each turnover to reset shape
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Coach can serve a second ball to force an instant re-transition
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Third runner going too early
• -Set pass played into feet with no angle
• -Stopping to appeal instead of reacting to the turnover